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The highly contagious disease, which can be carried by both wild and domesticated rabbits, is often symptomless and rabbits can be found dead with no obvious signs of disease.

There is no cure for the disease, which has been reported all over the UK, and the only way to protect pets is through vaccination.

The incident in Cornwall will be of concern to all rabbit owners, according to LincolnshireLive.

The Head and Head Veterinary Practice in Helston there shared the details of a confirmed case on Facebook.

The warning stated: "Warning to our rabbit owners.

"We have unfortunately had a confirmed case of Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD2) in our area.

"One of our clients has devastatingly had six of her nine pet rabbits suddenly die from the deadly virus.

"These rabbits were very well cared for and had not left their enclosed garden, which worryingly indicates the virus - which is extremely contagious - may have been carried in by wildlife.

"There is no treatment available once a rabbit has contracted the virus and they are likely to die very suddenly without prior signs of illness."

Wild Rabbit

Rabbit Awareness Week runs from June 2 to June 10 to encourage owners to seek help and advice on the care of their pets.

Eastfield Vets senior vet Dr Wendy Adams said: “RHVD-2 was confirmed in the UK in 2013. It is often fatal, although some rabbits have recovered with veterinary care.

“What makes RHVD-2 more dangerous than RHVD-1 is its longer infectious period, resulting in wider disease spread and there have been cases across Lincolnshire, which is extremely worrying.

“Both strains of RVHD are spread by direct contact with infected wild rabbits, or indirectly via urine or faeces.

“The viruses can survive for months in the environment and are easily brought home on clothing, footwear, plants, hay, the wind, and your other pets or other birds and insects visiting your garden.

“RHVD-2 is less easily recognised because there are few outward signs. Rabbits can simply be found dead or non-specifically ill.

"Because of this, owners often do not realise their rabbit has an infectious disease, resulting in late treatment and spread of infection to other rabbits.”

While there have been increased cases of RHVD-2, myxomatosis is still by far the most common fatal infectious disease seen at Eastfield Vets. Even indoor rabbits should be vaccinated against both diseases.

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Dr Adams is urging owners to take extra precautions with hygiene and care to prevent the spread of both diseases.

“It is important owners use disinfectant to clean hutches and living areas," she said.

"They should disinfect boots if they are going in and out of places where rabbits are kept, wear an apron and wash their hands thoroughly before handling each rabbit.

“New rabbits should be quarantined for a minimum of two weeks and should not share anything with your current rabbits. Always wash your hands and disinfect after any suspicious illness or death.

“You should discuss the risks and benefits of vaccinating your rabbit with your vet. There is a small risk to any animal by giving any vaccination, which is why animals should only be vaccinated if they are healthy.

“Vaccination against RVHD and myxomatosis in a healthy rabbit, including indoor rabbits, is essential.”

The current UK vaccine, Nobivac Myxo-RHD , offers protection against RVHD-1 and Myxomatosis, but is unlikely to offer any protection against RVHD-2, as this strain of the virus is genetically different.